Approach
The Art & Science of Change
Psychotherapy is a highly effective treatment for a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, and couples conflict. Here is a brief overview of our main research-based treatment models that we select based on the unique needs of each client:
A Client-Centered, Feedback-Informed Approach
The first step in any effective psychotherapy process is to ensure that we understand your unique experience and story. We listen in an accepting way to make sure we are connecting with your thoughts, emotions, values, and hopes for the future. We also invite regular feedback from our clients to ensure that the process is meeting their expectations.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Often times it’s helpful to determine how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors contribute to problems and potential solutions. So, for example, in the case of depression, it’s common for the mind to fixate on negative thoughts, ruminate about the past, and play out worst-case scenarios about the future, even if these scenarios are unlikely to occur. Identifying and gently challenging more negative thoughts can help alleviate depressive symptoms along with identifying behaviors that foster peace and contentment.
Mindfulness-Based Approaches
Mindfulness is about cultivating a relationship with life (including our thoughts, emotions, sensations, and other people) that is based on openness, compassion, and balance. In cases of depression, addiction, and couples conflict, harshness and judgment toward one’s self and others can often take over. We’ll work with you, when appropriate, to develop specific practices that will create a deeper sense of calm and connection.
Learn more about the overall research on the effectiveness of psychotherapy here.
Gottman Method Couples Therapy
This approach is based on over 30 years of research into what makes committed relationships fail or succeed. In short, we’ll work with you and your partner to address the following areas in your relationship:
- Creating and enhancing your friendship or “love map”
- Nurturing and expressing fondness and affection
- Turning toward each other and being emotionally responsive
- Taking the positive perspective
- Effectively managing conflict
- Making individual, couple, and family dreams come true
- Creating rituals of connection and a sense of shared meaning